West Virginia Influenza "Flu" Resource Center

Influenza (also known as the flu) is a respiratory illness caused by flu viruses that can spread easily from person to person. Influenza can cause mild to severe illness. Symptoms usually are fever and cough or sore throat, and may also include headache, extreme tiredness, runny or stuffy nose, or muscle aches. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can also occur, especially in children.

What can you do? Get vaccinated! Everybody age 6 months and older should get influenza vaccine every year.

Please read the Vaccine Information Statement found HERE for more information on flu vaccine.

Most people need only one dose for protection. Some children aged 6 months through 8 years will need two doses four weeks apart for full protection this year. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider for more information.

As with all vaccines, there are numerous myths that often confuse people. Here is credible information about vaccine safety.